The garden was originally established as a medicinal plant garden for the Saint Elizabeth Hospital.
It contains a rare Ginko biloba, one of the oldest living tree species, often called a living fossil.
The garden layout has been preserved since its redesign by the city landscape architect around 1884.
It survived the intense urban development of Antwerp during the 20th century.
The botanical collection is used for educational purposes and is managed by the city of Antwerp.
Plantentuin, historically known as 'Den Botaniek,' is a historic botanical garden established in 1825 by the Royal Society of Horticulture. It occupies the site of the former Saint Elizabeth Hospital garden. The park features a collection of over 2,000 plant and tree species, including rare specimens like the Ginkgo biloba. Visitors walk through a layout that reflects its original 19th-century design, including a rock garden and a greenhouse. The site serves as a green oasis in the center of Antwerp, surrounded by the city's urban landscape. A distinctive feature is the central pond and the carefully curated arboretum.
The central pond area with the historic iron bridge in the background.
Bring a book, as the park is one of the quietest spots in the city center.
Check the greenhouse area, which occasionally hosts small botanical displays.
The park is fully accessible via paved paths, suitable for all mobility levels.
Do not treat this as a place for active sports or group picnics, as it is a protected botanical site.
Open daily, but access may be restricted during extreme weather conditions or severe storm warnings.
Maintain quiet tones; do not pick plants or flowers.
